OUR MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can you replace roofs during the rainy season?

Yes, although it takes a little bit longer than the summer months. Usually, it never rains all day. On a showery day, you can tear off a little section and assess the roof deck and install underlayment before it starts raining again. With technology today, an app can tell you when the next shower is coming. We are roofers; our main goal is to keep water out of your house.

I have a roof leak. What should I do?

First you should protect the floor in your home with a bowl or bucket. Put the bowl underneath the drip if possible. Sometimes you will need to get creative to funnel the water into the bowl. This will prevent damage to your flooring and subfloor.

Next you should call your roofing contractor. The roofing contractor will come out and try to find the leak. When the roofer arrives they will need to see where it is leaking inside the home.

Next they will go up on the roof if possible and try to locate the leak. If they are not able to locate the leak from the outside, they will need access to the attic. Please try to have everything moved away from the attic access before the roofer gets there. When the leak is found, the roofer will give you a written estimate to fix the leak. Some leaks can only be fixed while the weather is nice. A tarp should then be installed until the repair can be completed. Please note that when a tarp is installed, the fasteners used to install the tarp will need to be fixed when the roof is being fixed. This will add additional cost, if a tarp must be installed.

How do I know if I need a new roof?

There are many signs that you may need a new roof. Cracking and curling shingles are a good indicator.

You will probably experience storm damage or leaks when the roof is near the end of its life. More than likely, the roofing contractor that does your repair will be able to tell you the quality of the workmanship and about how much life is left in the shingles. Excessive granules in your gutters are a sign that your roof should be replaced soon.

Another way to see if your roof is worn is to look up at your roof on a bright sunny day and see if the shingles give a little bit of glare. This is the fiberglass mat inside the shingle reflecting sunlight. The fiberglass mat is supposed to be covered by asphalt and shingle granules. When you see this, you’d better call your roofer.

How do you estimate the cost of my roof?

There are many different factors that go into estimating the cost of a roof. First, we determine the roof’s total square footage. Then we add in factors such as ridge vent, flashings, pipe jacks, pitch of roof, and accessibility. This will determine the labor part of the estimate. The next part is choosing the roofing material. The estimator will go over the shingle options with you. The type of shingle you choose will also affect the cost of installation. Some are easier to install than others.

Is a steeper roof better than shallow?

Steeper is not always better. That being said, the water will run off a steep roof better than a shallow roof. Water runoff is all gravity. Steeper roofs cost more to replace and maintain. Shallow roofs cost less and most maintenance can be done by a homeowner.

How often should I inspect my roof?

You should inspect your roof twice a year. Once in the fall before the leaves fall off the trees and once in the spring. You can do this by looking from the ground for missing or broken shingles, or anything that looks abnormal. This is a lot easier with a good pair of binoculars. It is best to have a roofing contractor go up on the roof and do an inspection.

How long will it take to install a new roof?

Every roof is different. Some roofs take only a day where some roofs can take upwards of 1 to 2 weeks.

Do I have to replace gutter and downspouts at the same time as my roofing project?

No, the gutters do not need to be replaced at the same time as the roof. If the gutters are in bad shape and rusting on the inside, your roof estimator should notice this and recommend replacing your gutters after the roof is completed. If the gutters are going to be replaced, always replace them after the roof is complete. This will eliminate any risk of the roofers banging up your new gutters.

What is a good color for my roof?

There are many different shingle colors. It is best that you pick the color. To do this, have your contractor give you a color chart. Pick your favorites and go to your local shingle supplier to see the larger sample boards. Your contractor can also bring you sample boards of the shingle colors you like. Remember to look at the sample boards outside in natural light. Keep in mind paint colors and future paint colors. If you are planning to sell the home in the future, a neutral color is always best.

How long does a new roof last?

20 to 30 years is a reasonable expectation in the Vancouver, WA area. There are many factors that can shorten the life of your roof.

When can you start?

We can usually start your project within 30 days.

What happens if it rains?

We work year round. We are a Vancouver roofing company so we are used to working in the rain. We won’t let your attic get wet. It’s fine if the materials get wet; that’s what they were made for.

Do I have to be home during the project?

No, you don’t have to be home. All we ask is that you keep your cell phone handy just in case we need to contact you.

Can I get a new roof in the winter?

Yes, we work year round. You will get the same quality roof in December as you would in August.

What if you find rotten wood during the tear off?

We always replace rotten wood in a reasonable amount of time, based on materials needed.

Do I have to replace my skylights when I get a new roof?

Ridgeline Roofing always installs new skylights when installing new roofs.

What kind of maintenance do I need on my new roof?

In the Vancouver, WA area, we recommend annual debris removal and moss treatment.